Have you ever tried to pet your kitty only to have them turn into a feisty feline because they don’t like your approach? Like humans, cats have preferred ways of being shown affection and certain things they don’t like. The next time you want to show your furry friend some love or you meet a new cat, it’s smart to know how and where to pet them.
Every cat has their preferences when it comes to social interaction and showing affection. However, there are some general rules most cats tend to follow regarding petting. If you have a close relationship with your kitty, they might let you get away with a few select moves. But for the most part, you’re better off knowing the more acceptable places to touch your cat.
When you have a clearer understanding of how and where to pet your cat, it’s better for you and your pet.
The Best Way to Approach a Cat
Before you attempt to pet a cat, the best thing to do is to determine if they even want you to pet them. Every cat has a different personality, and some enjoy petting more than others. Therefore, it’s important to read your cat’s body language to decide if they want you to pet them.
For example, your cat may approach you with a relaxed posture and rub their head or cheeks on your hand. Other positive signals that give you a green light are when their ears face forward and stand upright. They may also hold their tail high with the end slightly curled or start kneading you (watch the cat claws!).
If you feel as if your cat is sending you the okay to engage, then here’s what to keep in mind when petting them.
1. Let the Cat Investigate First
Hold out your hand calmly and slowly to let the cat sniff and scope you out first. This initial step is especially vital if you’re meeting a cat for the first time. If the cat shows interest and starts bumping their head against your hand or moving closer to you, this means they’re okay with moving forward.
2. Start Slowly and Know Where to Go
Don’t start off too aggressively if a cat gives you the go-ahead to pet them. It’s best to start slowly and gently. Use soft strokes instead of pats and concentrate your touches on the back, near the base of the tail, under the chin, and on the cheeks.
These areas are typically where most cats prefer to be petted, primarily due to the presence of scent markers. Your cat loves to claim you as their own and make sure every other cat knows it.
Avoid the top of the head at first until you get to know the cat better. Cats generally love to be pet on their heads, but it can come across as a bit unsettling to some felines if they aren’t familiar with you.
No matter whether you know the cat or not, steer clear of fooling with their tail, paws, or belly. A few cats may be okay with getting a pet in these spots, but they would need to feel incredibly comfortable with you.
Some kitties also love to be pet on their chest, but that’s a matter of preference. Therefore, it’s recommended to avoid that area during your first few encounters with a cat until you get to know them more and have a better feel for their favorite petting zones. Throughout the experience, remain gentle and avoid sudden movements that could startle the cat.
3. Monitor the Cat
As you pet a cat, keep an eye out for any signs that the encounter is becoming too much for them. As long as the cat continues to maintain a relaxed body posture and stay near you, it’s likely they’re enjoying the attention. The friendly feline may even continue to bump your hand if you stop petting them, telling you to keep going, or they may purr happily.
However, it’s important to know the signs a cat gives when they no longer want to be petted. They might get tired or overstimulated and want you to stop.
How Can You Tell If a Cat Doesn’t Want You to Pet Them?
Initially, if a cat doesn’t approach you first, it’s a clear sign that they don’t want you to pet them. Forcing the issue could land you with some feisty feedback, like a scratch, swat, or bite. Most often, if you’re out in the open, the cat will run away and hide, but if they feel cornered, prepare for something unpleasant.
Stop Petting a Cat If You Notice These Signs
What happens if a cat is in a friendly mood at first, then midway through petting decides they don’t like it anymore? They’ll likely give you a few signs that they want you to stop.
- The cat turns their head away and discontinues rubbing against your hand.
- Their ears go flat against their head or twitch, no longer facing forward all of the time.
- They start growling or hissing.
- The cat starts to swish or thump their tail.
- You notice the cat starts to tense up, losing their relaxed body posture.
- The cat tries to swat or bite your hand.
- Their pupils dilate.
Again, if the cat has an escape route, they’ll most likely flee. But stop petting the cat if they do any of these things. Respect their wishes and give them their space. They’ll come back to you when they’re ready for you to pet them again.
What If You Find a Stray Cat? Should You Pet Them?
Stray cats could be feral or they could be someone’s lost pet. If the cat seems healthy, is behaving normally, and lets you near them (or approaches you), check for identification. Bring them to a nearby vet if able so they can check for a microchip.
You can use a treat to try and lure the cat to you if they seem timid. Once you’re able to get the cat, the best thing to do is to secure them in a safe carrier to safely transport them to the vet or local animal shelter. If there is no tag or chip, and you decide to adopt the cat, contact Animal Control and verify first that the cat has no other owners.
You can post a found ad on your local lost pet Facebook Group, etc. Make sure to verify any claims before handing over the cat. If you end up with a new furry friend, bring them to the vet for vaccinations, and a well-check, and consider spaying or neutering them.
If the cat is hanging out in your yard, you can give them food and water dishes. Make sure they have a safe space as you try to locate their owner or have someone pick them up. If you choose to bring the cat inside, you’ll also want to have litter supplies available.
However, if the cat shows signs of aggression, do not approach. Call your local animal control center for assistance. The cat may be scared, but they could also be rabid. If you get too close, you could become infected if a cat with rabies bites you.
Does Your Cat Approve of Your Affections?
It’s always wise to use caution when interacting with a strange cat for the first time. But even your pet has moments when they want to be alone. Knowing how to read the signs your cat gives you for when they want you to pet them, and when they don’t, is essential to having a strong relationship.
Explore the Neater Pets blog to find more insight into all things pet-related and how you can take the very best care of your furry friend.